Fashion

Sonam Kapoor’s latest anarkali look brings Ajrakh, Bandhani and Gujarati chain stitch together

PublishedSeptember 19, 2026

For Ganesh Chaturthi, Sonam Kapoor chose to celebrate with her in-laws at their family home in New Delhi’s Lutyens’ neighbourhood. After a spree of headline-making appearances in a chikankari anarkali by Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla and Banarasi brocade one from Raw Mango in the last month, she chose yet another ensemble deeply rooted in Indian craftsmanship. Kapoor wore a hand-blocked anarkali kurta set from designer Jigyam Patel’s label Jigya.M, featuring floral detailing, paired with a deep crimson bandhej dupatta adorned with embroidery and an ornate border.

The block printing is done with ajrakh’s signature colour combination—in indigo and madder. The blue in the anarkali creates a striking colour-blocking effect with the crimson dupatta. The contrast brings out maximalism in Kapoor’s look.

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Bringing in one of Gujarat’s classic heritage techniques, bandhej, the traditionally tie-dyed dupatta adds a touch of sparkle to the look. The patola and mochi work add another layer of Gujarat’s rich craft heritage. Embroidered using a small hooked needle called an aari, mochi work is an intricate chain-stitch work, traditionally associated with Gujarat’s Mochi community. The technique has long been used to create detailed floral and decorative motifs on Kapoor’s bandhej dupatta.

To complement the look, Sonam turns to Jigyam Patel for jewellery yet again, opting for traditional jhumka earrings and a vintage rose-cut diamond necklace layered with basra pearl gajras and polki bracelets. The necklace feels like a stunning continuation of the outfit, with its intricate detailing tying in beautifully with the patola and mochi work. Every element feels very well thought out, from the exquisite craftsmanship to the statement necklace, creating a look that is dramatic but never overwhelming.

For makeup, makeup artist Hitesh Lamba chose a minimalist approach with just blush and glossy lips. Her hair was pulled back into a slick bun, a simple fuss-free and safe style for festive looks.

Craftsmanship from Gujarat has been having a moment in celebrity wardrobes with patola, bandhani and other regional techniques making their way into festive dressing. From patola-inspired silhouettes to traditional bandhani, the craft traditions of Gujarat are being embraced in increasingly maximalist ways. Kapoors’ look fits naturally into this mood, bringing these heritage crafts together seamlessly.